what is endometriosis?

Endometriosis is a chronic and systemic inflammatory disease characterized by the development of abnormal tissue growths, such as lesions, cysts, or nodules, on organs and structures throughout the body.

Despite menstrual symptoms being the first sign of endometriosis for many, it is not a menstrual or uterine disease. endometriosis is a whole- body disease that can manifest in bodies with or without a uterus.

SYMPTOMS

Endometriosis impacts everyone differently, so while many patients have a variety symptoms, others can be completely asymptomatic.

migraines
shortness of breath
pelvic pain
chronic fatigue
severe bloating
brain fog

urinary pain
infertility
back + shoulder pain
leg pain
heavy bleeding
organ damage

anxiety depression
painful intercourse
chest pain
nausea
vomiting
blood sugar issues

nerve damage
bloody urine or stool
constipation
diarrhea
food intolerances
insomnia

Who can be impacted by endometriosis?

Anyone! The most commonly referenced statistic claims that endometriosis impacts at least 1 in 10 people assigned female at birth. However, this statistic doesn't include many people of different genders who are also impacted by endometriosis!

While endometriosis is most commonly reported in people assigned female at birth, it's important to include all genders in the conversation.

When we refer to endometriosis as a 'women's disease', we exclude so many people of other genders from education and access to care. This leaves people suffering alone and holds us back as a community.